Ingredients

• chocolate graham cracker crumbs - 1 ½ cups
• unsalted butter - ½ cup, melted
• cream cheese - 24 oz, softened
• granulated sugar - 1 cup
• unsweetened cocoa powder - ½ cup
• heavy cream - 1 cup
• vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• eggs - 3
• chocolate chips - 1 cup, for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. 1.

   Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. 2.

   In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

3. 3.

   Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.

4. 4.

   In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

5. 5.

   Add cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the mixture, continuing to beat until well incorporated.

6. 6.

   Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.

7. 7.

   Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.

8. 8.

   Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

9. 9.

   Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.

10. 10.

    Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

11. 11.

    Top with chocolate chips before serving, if desired.